Fact check: Why is Kristi Noem called a dog killer

1. Summary of the results

Kristi Noem is called a "dog killer" because she admitted in her memoir to shooting and killing her 14-month-old German wirehaired pointer named Cricket ^{[1] [2] [3]}. The incident occurred after what Noem described as a bad hunting trip, where she claimed the dog was "untrainable" and had attacked a neighbor's chickens ^[4].

Noem also shot and killed a billy goat during the same incident, which has received additional scrutiny from critics who argue this action was even more disturbing and may constitute animal cruelty ^{[5] [2]}. The revelations came from Noem's upcoming book and sparked widespread backlash across the political spectrum ^[2].

The controversy has had significant political consequences for Noem, with many political commentators questioning her judgment and suitability for high office, potentially damaging her chances of being selected as a running mate for Donald Trump ^[2]. Former President Trump defended Noem as a "terrific person" who had a "bad week," while the Biden campaign criticized her "puppy-killing" actions ^[6].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

Expert opinion strongly contradicts Noem's justification: Hunting dog experts and trainers have expressed alarm at Noem's actions, indicating that her approach was not standard practice in dog training or rural life ^[3]. Sources emphasize that attitudes towards animal welfare have changed significantly over the past 20 years, and Noem's actions are not representative of typical rural dog ownership practices ^[7].

Noem's defense centers on practicality and rural necessity: She has defended her decision by claiming the dog was untrainable and posed a threat to livestock, framing it as a difficult but necessary decision in rural life ^[4]. However, this narrative has been challenged by experts who argue it doesn't reflect modern rural practices ^[7].

The story has broader implications beyond animal rights: Critics argue that the incident reveals concerning aspects of Noem's character, particularly regarding self-control and decision-making under pressure ^[5]. Some sources suggest the goat killing is more revealing of her character than the dog incident ^[5].

Political figures who benefit from this narrative include:

• The Biden campaign, which has used the "puppy-killing" label to attack Noem politically ^[6]
• Trump's other potential running mate candidates, who benefit from Noem's damaged reputation in the selection process ^[2]

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original question contains no apparent misinformation but lacks important context. The term "dog killer" is accurate but incomplete - it fails to mention that Noem also killed a goat during the same incident, which sources indicate may be more significant in understanding her character ^[5].

The question doesn't capture the full scope of the controversy, which extends beyond just the animal killings to include broader questions about Noem's judgment, character, and political viability ^[2]. The framing as simply "dog killer" may minimize the complexity of the ethical, political, and cultural issues raised by her actions.

The sources consistently report these as established facts from Noem's own memoir, not as allegations or claims, indicating the accuracy of the basic premise behind the nickname ^{[1] [2] [3]}.